The conflict in Goma, DRC intensifies, leading to a humanitarian crisis with approximately 6.5 million displaced. UN officials stress the urgency for humanitarian pauses and international engagement. Rwanda’s involvement in backing rebels complicates the situation further, prompting calls for protection of civilians and UN personnel.
As hostilities escalate in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the situation in Goma is deemed critical. UN Peace Operations chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix labeled the conflict as “volatile and dangerous,” expressing apprehension over the safety of civilians and UN personnel. He reported that some MONUSCO staff had to seek refuge during the conflict, which hindered their operational effectiveness in understanding the quickly changing conditions on the ground.
In an alarming update, UN Deputy Special Representative Bruno Lemarquis outlined a dire humanitarian disaster, highlighting that close to 6.5 million people are displaced across the nation, with nearly three million affected in North Kivu alone. He noted that civilians are suffering immensely, as heavy artillery is indiscriminately striking populated areas, including a maternity hospital, leading to casualties among both mothers and newborns. Essential services such as water and electricity are crippled, exacerbating the crisis.
Lemarquis called for immediate humanitarian pauses to ensure the safe evacuation of civilians and the delivery of necessary aid, emphasizing that action is crucial to prevent further casualties. Lacroix confirmed the involvement of Rwandan troops assisting M23 rebels, and condemned attacks that resulted in the deaths of three peacekeepers. He called for respect for UN personnel’s safety amid escalating tensions.
The UN is committed to regional peace initiatives, eagerly anticipating upcoming meetings by the East African Community and the African Union Peace and Security Council. Both officials underscored the need for heightened international engagement, especially following a recent $70 million fund allocation to aid humanitarian efforts. Lacroix concluded with a poignant call for the international community to intensify intervention to avert further bloodshed and support the humanitarian initiative.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, is characterized by violence between the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group and Congolese forces. This area has faced numerous challenges stemming from longstanding political instability, internal displacement, and humanitarian crises. Over 6 million individuals are currently displaced in the country, with North Kivu being heavily impacted. The involvement of foreign entities, such as Rwandan troops, complicates the situation further, attracting international attention and concern.
The situation in Goma represents a critical humanitarian crisis, as hostilities between the M23 rebels and Congolese forces escalate. The UN emphasizes the urgency for action to protect civilians and provide necessary humanitarian aid amidst the ongoing violence. The involvement of regional actors and international support is crucial to cease hostilities and address the dire circumstances faced by millions of displaced individuals.
Original Source: news.un.org
